Premier League - Cech perplexed by play-off rule

Petr Cech has questioned the Premier League rule which could mean Chelsea have to play Arsenal in an end-of-season play-off.

If the two London clubs finish the season level on points, goal difference and goals scored, a play-off will be necessary to decide third place and the automatic Champions League qualification spot.

That scenario could happen if the Gunners win 2-1 at Newcastle and Chelsea draw 0-0 at home to Everton in the final round of matches this weekend, or any scoreline where Chelsea draw and Arsenal score two more goals than them and win by the odd goal.

If this scenario was played out in a European competition, Chelsea would advance because they have beaten Arsenal twice this season.

But unlike UEFA, the Premier League do not take into account the two teams' head-to-head record, much to Cech's bemusement.